BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Foreign Trade reported a sharp increase in Thailand’s organic rice exports to China at the start of 2026, establishing China as the largest market for Thai organic rice.
Department of Foreign Trade Director-General Arada Fuangtong stated that Thai organic rice exports to China reached 638 tons in January 2026, a 334.01% increase over the same period last year. This volume represents 31.32% of Thailand’s total organic rice exports, making China the leading export destination.
This strong growth reflects rising demand from Chinese consumers who prioritize health, food safety, and premium-quality products.
In 2025, Thailand exported 26,110 tons of organic rice, a 17.12% increase from the previous year, with a total export value of 1.21 billion baht, up 11.21%. Exports to China totaled 3,352 tons, a 727.65% increase, valued at 155 million baht, up 715.79%.
Authorities noted that China is now a key driver of Thailand’s premium rice market, especially for products focused on quality and sustainability. Ongoing growth in China is expected to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness and brand recognition among premium consumers.
The Department of Foreign Trade will work with the Ministry of Commerce and the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion to support SMEs producing premium rice. A major promotional event is planned for Guangzhou, China, in July 2026.
Additional promotion will highlight high-quality rice varieties, such as organic rice, Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) rice, low-carbon rice, indigenous rice, GI rice, and health-focused products. Campaigns will target premium and niche markets through social media influencers to strengthen global recognition of Thai premium rice and support ongoing export growth. (NNT)
